Thiago Alcântara gave a press conference after Thursday’s training session to stress the importance of the league title, and how much FC Barcelona wants it.

“We’ve been fighting for this all season. Last year we lost the title and we want it back. It’s a lovely title. Sometimes you get so used to winning it’s as if you don’t value the title, but I can tell you that here in the squad we know how hard it has been to face up to and win so many games.”

Although Barça can clinch the La Liga title a day before facing Atlético Madrid on Sunday at the Vicente Calderón, Thiago insists that Blaugrana’s priority is to win even if Real Madrid loses to Espanyol on Saturday.

“The Calderón is never an easy place to go to and win. Atlético Madrid are in next year’s Champions League and they are through to the Cup final. There’s still plenty of time for them to focus on that final and I am sure they will give us a very tough game.”

Regarding his form this season, he said that he was satisfied with his contribution to the team, even though his injuries at the start of the campaign hindered his progress. He feels that he is finishing the season in good condition. He hopes to give more to the team and get more time on the pitch.

He also spoke highly of his brother Rafinha, who plays with Barça B, and said that he has enough quality to succeed and “bring great things to the team.”